Ciska
What is it like to move to the Netherlands for your studies and to kickstart your career in a different country than where you grew up? From discovering the European work-life balance and enjoying the occasional frikandel. Indian AI wizard Ariyan tells us all about his journey as an international student living, studying and working in the Netherlands.
My name is Ariyan and I come from the Jammu and Kashmir region in the north of India. For my bachelor’s degree I moved to the south and immediately noticed the cultural differences between the north and the south. Living in both the north and the south of the country shaped me in unexpected ways and prepared me to take the leap to move across continents and pursue my Master’s degree in the Netherlands.
Choosing Europe was a deliberate decision. I wanted an experience that balanced work and life while offering top-tier education. The Netherlands stood out with its strong AI programs, innovative professors, and welcoming culture. The first few months here were both exciting and challenging. Everything felt different, from the quiet streets to the meticulous schedules.
Here, casual chats with strangers on the street are normal, but the Dutch plan everything. In India, you can call a friend and hang out instantly. Here? You need to book a coffee date weeks in advance. I miss the spontaneity, but I’ve learned to appreciate the structure. It’s like learning a new rhythm, but it is one that grows on you.
When I’m not working on cutting-edge AI models, you’ll find me indulging in Dutch snacks. I like to joke that I came here for the robots but stayed for the fried food. The Dutch have perfected the art of frying, and I’m here for it.
But that doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten about the flavorful dishes from home. One of my personal favorites being Rajma, which is a spicy curry made of kidney beans. This dish reminds me of home and I often get complimented on it when I make it for my friends here. Be warned though, it can be a bit too spicy for some.
Professionally, the move has been transformative as well. Back home, hierarchy often stifles innovation. If the person in charge says we’re going left, you go left without question. In the Netherlands, collaboration is key. You can challenge ideas, share your thoughts, and genuinely feel valued. This cultural shift has unlocked a new level of creativity, and it’s reflected in the AI models I’ve been building.
But the journey hasn’t been without struggles. Navigating a new education system, understanding work regulations, and battling homesickness were tough. I’ll never forget the time it took me over a year to figure out how to connect with my study advisor properly. Yet, every challenge taught me resilience and adaptability.
As I continue to pursue my academic and professional goals, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead. The Netherlands has given me a platform to grow, experiment, and make meaningful contributions.
Whether I’m working on AI projects or perfecting my fried food rankings, I’m learning, growing, and enjoying every moment. This journey has shown me that stepping out of your comfort zone isn’t just brave, it’s essential for growth.
